Deer Lodge Curling Club – A Century of Community and Excellence
Founded in 1918 by engaged local citizens, the Deer Lodge Curling Club (DLCC) has been a cornerstone of the St. James, Deer Lodge, and Silver Heights communities for more than a century. Over its history, the club has operated from three locations, each reflecting the growth and resilience of the organization:
- 1918-1919: Lyle Street near Portage Avenue (2 sheets)
- 1919-1956: Truro Street at Bruce Avenue (6 sheets), alongside Truro Creek
- 1957-Present: 425 Woodlawn Street, north of Ness Avenue (6 sheets), with an addition completed in 1988
The current Woodlawn facility stands as a testament to community spirit, having been built with a considerable amount of volunteer labour from club members.
A Volunteer-Driven Organization
The Deer Lodge Curling Club is proudly run by its members. The Executive and Board of Directors are comprised entirely of volunteers, many of whom have served for up to 15 years, ultimately joining the club’s Past Presidents Association. This long-standing tradition of volunteer leadership has been central to the club’s sustainability and success.
Leagues and Club Life
The Deer Lodge Ladies Curling Club, established in 1920, operated through the 2019 season, after which it amalgamated with the retired men’s club, fittingly named The Antlers. Throughout its history—and continuing today—DLCC has been home to numerous independent Associate Leagues, reflecting the club’s inclusive and welcoming nature (see Club Usage Report).
Provincial and National Acclaim
Deer Lodge Curling Club has earned significant recognition at both provincial and national levels:
- 10 Presidents of the Manitoba Curling Association (now Curl MB)
- 5 Presidents of the Manitoba Ladies Curling Association
- 1 President of the Canadian Curling Association - Joan Whalley
Competitive achievements by club members include:
- 1947: Jimmy Welsh team - Dominion Men’s Curling Championship
- 1979: Barry Fry team - Macdonald Brier
- 1995: Kelly MacKenzie Junior Women’s team - Canadian and World Junior Championships
- 2009: Sean Grassie team - Canadian Mixed Championship
- 2014 & 2015: Braden Calvert team - Canadian Junior Men’s Championships
- 2015: World Junior Men’s Championship
Dedication, Strength, and Determination
- In 1918, DLCC was the 10th curling club established in Winnipeg.
- Today, only two of those original clubs remain active in buildings they own.
- Since 1918, 20 curling clubs have been established in Winnipeg; only seven remain.
A Hub for Community Life
From its earliest days, Deer Lodge Curling Club has been a place of recreation, connection, and community gathering. While it is impossible to quantify how many individuals have passed through its doors to curl and socialize, the club’s impact is undeniable.
In addition to hosting numerous provincial championship events, the DLCC facility has welcomed a wide range of community and private functions, including:
- Wedding socials
- Retirement parties
- Local business team-building events
- Celebration of Life receptions
- Birthday parties
- Trivia nights
- Canada Learn to Curl Day
- The club’s own Open Fun Bonspiel
All are welcome at Deer Lodge Curling Club—a place where sport, volunteerism, and community continue to come together
